Sotto powers Batang Gilas to 13th place with rout of New Zealand

Photo from Fiba.com

Riding high after earning its first win, the Philippines ripped New Zealand, 73-51, early Monday morning (Manila time) to end its campaign on a winning note in the Fiba Under-17 World Cup in Argentina.

Kai Sotto had another dominant outing, making his presence felt on both ends with 22 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks as Batang Gilas settled for 13th place after wrapping up the tournament with back-to-back victories.

The 7-foot-1 Sotto came off a 28-point, 17-rebound performance in a 70-69 win over Egypt.

Sotto anchored the Filipinos’ stifling defense that held the Kiwis to just 36 points after three quarters.

Rence Padrigao also had an all-around effort, collecting four points, four rebounds, nine assists and six steals for Batang Gilas, which finished the tournament with two wins after losing its first five games.

The Filipinos took care of the ball for the second straight time. They dished out 19 assists against only eight turnovers.

New Zealand outrebounded Batang Gilas, 60-43, but shot only 25 percent from the field.

Mitchell Dance paced the Kiwis with 12 points and 11 rebounds.